I'm surprised I haven't seen much talk about this version here, or Xfinity Mobile in general. It is definitely the best option in price (to purchase a single Note 9 with little service commitment) over the unlocked version without being being too much of a hassle to get the rebate.
For myself, that means I activated a prepaid line (T-mobile, $10 sim, $6 for 2 months of service) to port to Xfinity in order to get the rebate. I'm on Sprint's 1 year free plan until the middle of next year, and since I already subscribe to Xfinity Internet at home, I might as well use that as an advantage to get the discounted phone. Since my main # is on Google Voice, I use their call forwarding to the carrier number currently, so I can do the same on Xfinity -- forwarding calls for the first month (or 2) until I can request an unlock code. For the first few months, I will actually use the service in part and keep it active to get the rebate (and get paid for it!), since I also have a BankAmeriDeals $50 cashback offer from Xfinity Mobile once 2 monthly billing charges hit. The timing was very sweet on that one, ha!
For others, I understand this offer might be too much work, as would be the alternate solution of switching carriers altogether to Xfinity Mobile, which is more than likely why it doesn't have that much appeal. That being said, I wanted to point out that this option is available, and start this thread for discussion on supported bands related to the Xfinity, or Comcast (CCT) model.
Known/deduced information so far:
128 GB model #s: SM-N960UZBACCT (Ocean Blue), SM-N960UZPACCT (Lavender Purple)
512 GB model #s: SM-N960UZBFCCT (Ocean Blue), SM-N960UZPFCCT (Lavender Purple)
I cannot find any information on the supported bands for this CCT variant other than (what I hope is) a limited list from the Xfinity website (B2, B5, B13, B4, B66).
Is the below assumption incorrect? I've been on Google devices for a while and I've been out of the loop with Samsung:
1) Once released, factory unlocked US firmware (XAA) can be flashed to this CCT (or any other) US carrier variant, and this should enable the bands supported by the US unlocked firmware.
Finally, if anyone has a previous Galaxy S9 or similar on Xfinity, can they comment if the bands on the device are the same or similar to the Verizon (VZW) variant?
References:
SM-N960 model number differences
Cellular frequencies in the US
I disagree that it's definitely the best option for a discount in price. Verizon BOGO and T-mobile $500 off are better, in my opinion. Yes, they're bill credits, but I'm not going anywhere anyway. More money off = better to me. I think T-mobile is the best one since it's basically just half off the phone.
I have Comcast and had Verizon. I thought about the Xfinity thing but then it's the same old game is taxes and fees increasing your bill. I'd pay about $36/mo for 3GB (still restrictive) and then with taxes and crap I'd be at $45/mo for limited data and I'd be watching my usage still (as I did with my 3GB on Verizon). Instead, I opted for T-mobile and will be paying $33/mo (as part of a 6-line account) for unlimited data and no taxes and fees. That makes me a happy camper. Plus with T-mobile Tuesdays, I'll get free Pandora Plus for year, I get free Netflix for life, free MLB TV each season, etc. I'm loving this company so far! And for $10 more, I can get 20GB of 4G Hotspot a month. ?
Anyway, I really did consider Xfinity wireless. The biggest turnoff was the lack of phone options, promotions, and the data is costly.
PsiPhiDan said:
I disagree that it's definitely the best option for a discount in price.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This is why I clarified for a single phone purchase. I think I needed to be more specific and mention without a long term service commitment. With any other carrier I would have needed to:
(1) Do a credit pull
(2) Stay with the carrier for 2 years to deal with bill credits (no thanks)
(3) Pay more than I do now for service (current bill w/ Sprint's free 1-year plan is <$20/mth for 4 lines) -- I'm not staying w/ Xfinity after I get the rebate, heh. Once the Sprint taxes+fees gravy train is over I'll see where I move
If anyone has any insight for the supported bands on CCT (Comcast/Xfinity models) I'd appreciate it.
Would US XAA firmware be able to be cross-flashed to this CCT (or any other) US carrier variant to enable the bands supported by the XAA US unlocked firmware? From the searches I did yesterday, it seems like it is possible, but may require a modified Odin version?
vacaloca said:
This is why I clarified for a single phone purchase. I think I needed to be more specific and mention without a long term service commitment. With any other carrier I would have needed to:
(1) Do a credit pull
(2) Stay with the carrier for 2 years to deal with bill credits (no thanks)
(3) Pay more than I do now for service (current bill w/ Sprint's free 1-year plan is <$20/mth for 4 lines) -- I'm not staying w/ Xfinity after I get the rebate, heh. Once the Sprint taxes+fees gravy train is over I'll see where I move
If anyone has any insight for the supported bands on CCT (Comcast/Xfinity models) I'd appreciate it.
Would US XAA firmware be able to be cross-flashed to this CCT (or any other) US carrier variant to enable the bands supported by the XAA US unlocked firmware? From the searches I did yesterday, it seems like it is possible, but may require a modified Odin version?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Since the S8, all of the S and Note line devices that are US based have the exact same hardware and features. It's the exact same phone with different carrier software. What funny is, if your unlock the device and just pop in another major carrier sim, Xfinity apps and bloat will be gone and the carrier sim you put in will populate.
Jammol said:
Since the S8, all of the S and Note line devices that are US based have the exact same hardware and features. It's the exact same phone with different carrier software. What funny is, if your unlock the device and just pop in another major carrier sim, Xfinity apps and bloat will be gone and the carrier sim you put in will populate.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's good to hear. So assuming anything else is unchanged in the Samsung ecosystem, the US XAA firmware can be loaded onto any US carrier variant, yes? My understanding is that the different carrier firmwares enable/disable specific bands.
If root was available, it would seem that bands could be added regardless of the carrier firmware [1], however, root seems unlikely for a new flagship device unless the engineering firmware happens to leak.
References:
[1] https://forum.xda-developers.com/galaxy-s8+/how-to/qualcomm-phones-add-lte-band-using-qxdm-t3785458
vacaloca said:
That's good to hear. So assuming anything else is unchanged in the Samsung ecosystem, the US XAA firmware can be loaded onto any US carrier variant, yes? My understanding is that the different carrier firmwares enable/disable specific bands.
If root was available, it would seem that bands could be added regardless of the carrier firmware [1], however, root seems unlikely for a new flagship device unless the engineering firmware happens to leak.
References:
[1] https://forum.xda-developers.com/galaxy-s8+/how-to/qualcomm-phones-add-lte-band-using-qxdm-t3785458
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Correct, the bands that are open is dependant on the SIM Card inserted. The firmware on the device has every single supported US carrier required files with the exception of a small few. Carriers such as Total Wireless or the Walmart ones won't have firmware specific files, but because those carriers don't have their own towers, the device will use the files for the carriers that own the towers.
Example of Xfinity mobile. They just use Verizon towers for their service coverage. Xfinity however piggie backed their files or Verizon's in the firmware. Rooting could allow more bands to open.
Man I would love to see some hardware hacking of the S and Note series to allow them to work fully on Google's Project Fi.
I have the Xfinity Note 9, and having come from Verizon I immediately save the $20 line access fee, so it's a win if you want to be on the Verizon network.
So far my only complaint is that voicemail isn't transcribed. Should be, but doesn't seem to work.
For those wondering, Mobile Hotspot (using your device as a hotspot) works just fine with either plan. It's just hard to Google search for an answer because Xfinity has mobile hotspots that augment their signal.
I made the switch and save money too. Got the $300 rebate card, save $20/month so it is less when you factor it all in. That's $540. [emoji3]
Sent from my SM-N960U using Tapatalk
Related
For context let me say that I live in the US, currently on Verizon, but not on contract. I have been waiting since February for a device worthy of upgrading from my Droid Incredible. This is the phone for me.
Given that the US carriers seem incapable of getting new high-end hardware (7 months for SGSII to launch here is the US!!!), and that there has been no announcement of this phone on any US carrier, I am planning for the worst.
I am unfamiliar with GSM networks, having been on Verizon's CDMA for 10+years. My understanding is that I simply need a SIM card from a GSM carrier, say AT&T, and an "unlocked" GSNote from the UK. Is there any risk this won't work? I would hate to spend a ton of money for a phone I can't use.
Any news on a US release.
The galaxy note selling right now is unlock and the 3G band will work on AT&T USA 850/1900 bands and get edge on tmobile.
Sent from my note
3G > Edge?
Does it use standard SIM or the new Micro SIM?
Any suggestions on where / who to buy from in UK? Reputable seller.
Sent from my ADR6300 using XDA App
Seth Turner said:
3G > Edge?
Does it use standard SIM or the new Micro SIM?
Any suggestions on where / who to buy from in UK? Reputable seller.
Sent from my ADR6300 using XDA App
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, 3G > EDGE. EDGE is the GSM equivalent to 1x.
The biggest benefit of GSM network is the ability to swap phones around by just swapping the sim card as long the phone is network unlocked.
GNote from europe is network unlocked.
All you have to do is visit and att store, get a sim and a plan.
Once u get a sim and a number, u can put it in any gsm phone and use it .
Seth Turner said:
3G > Edge?
Does it use standard SIM or the new Micro SIM?
Any suggestions on where / who to buy from in UK? Reputable seller.
Sent from my ADR6300 using XDA App
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Im using AT&T and I order the device from mobilecotyonline.com but no ETA but negrielectronics have instock also in the US the two retailers sell the unlock device with AT&T 3G bands and regular SIM Card.
Buy an unlocked Samsung Galaxy Note. Put it on Straight Talk Mobile prepaid for $45/month which uses AT&T's network. You would have to buy a refurbed Nokia E71 phone for $99 to do it and put the sim card in the Note with some settings changes. You get unlimited talk/text/data with no contract using AT&T's 3G network.
I too must have this device. My contract with verizon ends in a couple of weeks and i was planning to renew and get the galaxy nexus but after seeing the galaxy note, well....anyway i'd like to wait for the korean release of the note since it's supposed to have lte. will that model work on verizon or do i need to switch to at&t no matter what? if the lte note will work on verizon, i was thinking getting the nexus with contract renewal and then selling it to get the note.
Seth - I can recommend Expansys.co.uk
Received mine the day after they got it in stock.
Sent from my GT-N7000 using xda premium
leaverus said:
I too must have this device. My contract with verizon ends in a couple of weeks and i was planning to renew and get the galaxy nexus but after seeing the galaxy note, well....anyway i'd like to wait for the korean release of the note since it's supposed to have lte. will that model work on verizon or do i need to switch to at&t no matter what? if the lte note will work on verizon, i was thinking getting the nexus with contract renewal and then selling it to get the note.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Verizon uses CDMA which is not compatible if the Korean version is GSM. Only way is if it was released as a world phone with both CDMA and GSM built in.
What about speeds?
It sounds like getting a European version will limit the data speeds here in the US due to compatibility of data technology faster than 3G. I don't know if T-Mobile or AT&T have anything faster than 3G, but the CDMA carriers (Sprint and Verizon) have 4G (WiMax/LTE) data.
So I could wait for any US carrier to offer it, but it seems only Sprint or Verizon would provide high speed data. If only T-Mobile or AT&T carry it I would do better to get one from UK to get it earlier.
Of course all these issues would go away if US carriers would get decent f'ing hardware!!!
Why is it that all the good stuff launches in Europe first anyway?
Seth Turner said:
It sounds like getting a European version will limit the data speeds here in the US due to compatibility of data technology faster than 3G. I don't know if T-Mobile or AT&T have anything faster than 3G, but the CDMA carriers (Sprint and Verizon) have 4G (WiMax/LTE) data.
So I could wait for any US carrier to offer it, but it seems only Sprint or Verizon would provide high speed data. If only T-Mobile or AT&T carry it I would do better to get one from UK to get it earlier.
Of course all these issues would go away if US carriers would get decent f'ing hardware!!!
Why is it that all the good stuff launches in Europe first anyway?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I almost sure for thi syear non US carrier launch the Note,You can wait to see but if you like a carrier have this device remember just AT&T 3G?HSPA+ version pass the FCC till the moment and I think is because they know users in the US sure buy this device and they test to skip future problems not because a carrier in the US have this.
I am a bit confused. Would it have faster than 3G data if it was released on T-Mobile or AT&T as opposed to importing one from Europe?
Seth Turner said:
I am a bit confused. Would it have faster than 3G data if it was released on T-Mobile or AT&T as opposed to importing one from Europe?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The speed of your device is influence by your carrier the device is ready to run like from 28 to 40 M,sorry don‘t be more specific but you can check the database of the device.
OP, if you leave Verizon for AT&T you'll get HSPA+ speeds (aka: fake 4G). You can typically expect 3MBish down in areas where AT&T hasn't upgraded their backhaul and 6-8MB down where they have. Anybody that uses a non-AWS device on T-Mobile is nuts.
Because the device isn't recognized on AT&T's network you can save a bunch of money on voice and data. You can get a $39.99 450 minute voice plan (900 = $59.99) with 5,000 nights and weekends minutes (900 = unlimited). Add unlimited messaging with mobile to any mobile calling (any mobile on any carrier) for $20 and you can add unlimited data for $10 on the data for non-Smartphones plan. So you're close to a truly unlimited plan for $69.99 a month. Also, if you bring your own equipment (tell them you're using a Moto Krzr) you can go contract-less and leave any time you want. I did this in May coming from T-Mobile when I got my ISGS2. I don't know if you travel internationally but, if you do, having AT&T and an unlocked phone is a joy. They have great international data roaming plans and you can also buy a pay-as-you-go plan in any country you visit and just pop the SIM in to the Note. If you want to go the route I described you have to do it over the phone, it can't be done online.
---------- Post added at 05:19 PM ---------- Previous post was at 05:16 PM ----------
Seth Turner said:
I am a bit confused. Would it have faster than 3G data if it was released on T-Mobile or AT&T as opposed to importing one from Europe?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No, HSPA+ is the fastest speed you can get on AT&T short of LTE. The ASGS2 and ISGS2 get the same speeds on AT&T's network with a theoretical max of 21MB down. If AT&T introduces an LTE version of the Note then yes, that would be faster. T-Mobile's a non-starter because: A) they use funky bands that aren't typically supported by international devices, and B) they'll probably be gone soon anyway.
BarryH_GEG said:
OP, if you leave Verizon for AT&T you'll get HSPA+ speeds (aka: fake 4G). You can typically expect 3MBish down in areas where AT&T hasn't upgraded their backhaul and 6-8MB down where they have. Anybody that uses a non-AWS device on T-Mobile is nuts.
Because the device isn't recognized on AT&T's network you can save a bunch of money on voice and data. You can get a $39.99 450 minute voice plan (900 = $59.99) with 5,000 nights and weekends minutes (900 = unlimited). Add unlimited messaging with mobile to any mobile calling (any mobile on any carrier) for $20 and you can add unlimited data for $10 on the data for non-Smartphones plan. So you're close to a truly unlimited plan for $69.99 a month. Also, if you bring your own equipment (tell them you're using a Moto Krzr) you can go contract-less and leave any time you want. I did this in May coming from T-Mobile when I got my ISGS2. I don't know if you travel internationally but, if you do, having AT&T and an unlocked phone is a joy. They have great international data roaming plans and you can also buy a pay-as-you-go plan in any country you visit and just pop the SIM in to the Note. If you want to go the route I described you have to do it over the phone, it can't be done online
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
thnx, this is probably exactly what i'll do since i'm coming from verizon as well. but i think i'm gonna wait for the release of the lte version in korea and import that. will at&t send me a sim card with new service??
BarryH_GEG said:
OP, if you leave Verizon for AT&T you'll get HSPA+ speeds (aka: fake 4G). You can typically expect 3MBish down in areas where AT&T hasn't upgraded their backhaul and 6-8MB down where they have. Anybody that uses a non-AWS device on T-Mobile is nuts.
Because the device isn't recognized on AT&T's network you can save a bunch of money on voice and data. You can get a $39.99 450 minute voice plan (900 = $59.99) with 5,000 nights and weekends minutes (900 = unlimited). Add unlimited messaging with mobile to any mobile calling (any mobile on any carrier) for $20 and you can add unlimited data for $10 on the data for non-Smartphones plan. So you're close to a truly unlimited plan for $69.99 a month. Also, if you bring your own equipment (tell them you're using a Moto Krzr) you can go contract-less and leave any time you want. I did this in May coming from T-Mobile when I got my ISGS2. I don't know if you travel internationally but, if you do, having AT&T and an unlocked phone is a joy. They have great international data roaming plans and you can also buy a pay-as-you-go plan in any country you visit and just pop the SIM in to the Note. If you want to go the route I described you have to do it over the phone, it can't be done online.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you for this suggestion. I am coming from T-mobile and I will switch over to AT&T because I need fast internet speed for the Note.
BarryH_GEG said:
Because the device isn't recognized on AT&T's network you can save a bunch of money on voice and data.
Also, if you bring your own equipment (tell them you're using a Moto Krzr) you can go contract-less and leave any time you want. I did this in May coming from T-Mobile when I got my ISGS2.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
once the ISGS2 got released on AT&T, don't they notice? or they still don't because it's a different model number?
- Frank
leaverus said:
thnx, this is probably exactly what i'll do since i'm coming from verizon as well. but i think i'm gonna wait for the release of the lte version in korea and import that. will at&t send me a sim card with new service??
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Two things. The Korean versions of Samsung products are optimized for the two Korean carriers. They are tri-band, not quad-band like the rest of the world and don't support AT&T's bands. Also, LTE is a moving target. There are over a dozen different spectrums in use worldwide so there's no assurance a device designated LTE will work with a specific carrier. VZW and AT&T both use the 700 series bands yet their devices are incompatible.
---------- Post added at 07:26 PM ---------- Previous post was at 07:22 PM ----------
ChodTheWacko said:
once the ISGS2 got released on AT&T, don't they notice? or they still don't because it's a different model number?
- Frank
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
They can detect a phone's model based on its IMEI. They don't have the IMEI's for international phones in their database. The exception being Google phones (including the new Galaxy Nexus) because Google makes that data available to them. So they can't identify an ISGS2 as a smartphone. The ASGS2 is both a different model number and they have the IMEIs for all of those models produced.
Might suggest sticking with Verizon buy the phone out right and get the Verizon Wireless 4G LTE Mobile Hotspot then use that as your data and if you need to talk VOIP / SIP never worry about min. Benefit you can use the MIFI on your laptop and any other Wifi enabled devices. Other benefit is the price a heck of a lot cheaper than those Cell contracts. Just an idea..
Based on my past experience, when I used an AT&T unlocked Note 4 and S5 with a Tracfone sim(T-Mobile as the underlying carrier), I would have sporadic calling issues with no audio during phone calls. When I made or received calls, the other person could not hear me or I couldn't hear them. In some instances, we couldn't hear each other. Data was always working good and displaying 4G LTE and SMS always worked. I even had the band set to LTE/GSM after trying Automatic. (https://support.t-mobile.com/thread/140917)
I switched the Tracfone T-Mobile sims with Tracfone AT&T sims and all of these call issues disappeared. Of course, I had to set the band back to Automatic. And set the APN to get 4G LTE. When considering this issue, it leads me to this question:
Since I have the opportunity to purchase any brand of unlocked Note 8 and use it with either of my Tracfone sims (AT&T or T-Mobile), which Note 8 model do you recommend for the best experience considering phone-to-carrier compatibility and less importantly, bloatware/Android speed?
My first choice is the SM-N950F which doesn't have any bloatware, but I'm not sure how seamless it would work in terms of network/band/data compatibility issues. I'm researching this now. Any input on this would be greatly appreciated. Thanks, Graz
Basically I learned when using the international SM-N950F with any U.S. carrier including Tracfone, you will not get certain features these carriers offer: Visual VM, WIFI Calling, Video Calling. So why even bother buying a branded AT&T or T-Mob Note 8 because all of the bloatware included on these phones won't be able to be used anyway for these features, nor will I get OTA security updates with a Tracfone sim.
So, I'm thinking the SM-N950F or even the U.S. unlocked unbranded Note 8 may work better because they don't have the bloatware I can't use anyway. But which if any, would work better in terms of calling, banding, or data compatibilities with a Tracfone sim(AT&T or T-Mob underlying carrier)?
Thanks, Graz
---------------------------------
EDIT: So far (and I may be wrong) I learned:
It seems the International (SM-N950F) version and U.S. Unlocked version (SM-N950U1) can both be rooted but it seems there's more info on rooting the SM-N950F by Max Lee.
The International (SM-N950F) sometimes may not come with a manufacturer's warranty depending on were you buy it from.
Both Note 8s will work with U.S. carriers, but according this page, the U.S. Unlocked version (SM-N950U1) has more bands/frequencies. https://www.techwalls.com/samsung-galaxy-note-8-sm-n950-model-number-differences/
---------------------------------
EDIT AGAIN: What I decided to to was purchase the ATT branded SM-N950U and flash one of the following UNLOCKED firmwares to it to remove bloat:
XAA This firmware will provide for a bare bones, no bloat experience
ATT or TFN: These will have some carrier files, but very little bloat. Not sure if these unlocked firmwares will provide features like WIFI Calling/ VOLTE.
I just bought the SM-N960U1, an unlocked Note 9 (Snapdragon version) directly from Samsung (well, Best Buy, but basically Samsung). I have Verizon service. If I get Verizon's international calling plan, will I be able to use the Verizon service with my number on this phone in South Korea, or anywhere internationally? I already called and asked Verizon; they said it would be compatible, and their site states that voice, data, LTE, everything will work. The only thing I'm worried about is that I read this post which says it DOESN'T work.
https://forums.androidcentral.com/s...d-vs-carrier-galaxy-note-9-a.html#post6308162
I had a Note 9 Exynos SM-N960F/DS version on AT&T and it worked great over there, but I had to sell it.
Can anyone confirm that the SM-N960U1 with Verizon service will work overseas (specifically South Korea) on Verizon's international plan?
Thanks so much!
ajm786 said:
I just bought the SM-N960U1, an unlocked Note 9 (Snapdragon version) directly from Samsung (well, Best Buy, but basically Samsung). I have Verizon service. If I get Verizon's international calling plan, will I be able to use the Verizon service with my number on this phone in South Korea, or anywhere internationally? I already called and asked Verizon; they said it would be compatible, and their site states that voice, data, LTE, everything will work. The only thing I'm worried about is that I read this post which says it DOESN'T work.
https://forums.androidcentral.com/s...d-vs-carrier-galaxy-note-9-a.html#post6308162
I had a Note 9 Exynos SM-N960F/DS version on AT&T and it worked great over there, but I had to sell it.
Can anyone confirm that the SM-N960U1 with Verizon service will work overseas (specifically South Korea) on Verizon's international plan?
Thanks so much!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Your number will be the same, but I highly advise against paying for Verizon's stupidly expensive international plans. I have the same phone and service, and will be going overseas at the end of this month to Japan and Thailand. I bought myself a Google Fi sim card to use as it seems to be the most convenient and cheaper plan for me to use as it will keep the same number given while charging 20 cents a minute for calls (which I won't do), but let's me text for free and data costs the same as it would be here in the States. You should look into that instead.
That's awesome; thanks so much for the reply. Yeah, their international plans are a bit expensive I must admit. AT&T's, while not too much better, worked flawlessly while I was in Korea, so that was good.
I'll definitely look into the Google Fi. Are you going to simply forward your number to the Fi service while you are abroad?
ajm786 said:
That's awesome; thanks so much for the reply. Yeah, their international plans are a bit expensive I must admit. AT&T's, while not too much better, worked flawlessly while I was in Korea, so that was good.
I'll definitely look into the Google Fi. Are you going to simply forward your number to the Fi service while you are abroad?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Nah, I'll just create a new number so that way I don't get called by mistake. Especially robocallers.
The only issue I had with Google Fi when I had the service was that it wouldn't allow talk and data at the same time if connected to Sprint.
Carrier Unlocked vs. Factory Unlocked vs. Carrier & eBay adamant GSM & CDMA different
Carriers and vendors on eBay have been adamant that a SM-N960U phone is different, and you cannot use Note 9 phones that came from GSM wireless providers on a CDMA networks and vice-versa. They become incensed and assume a position of superiority at the very suggestion that the differences between network today are often handled by changing firmware. With all of the US Note 9s being the same hardware, this is my take on where they are coming from.
1. If it says carrier unlocked for example: AT&T, it will only be compatible with GSM networks (GSM networks---AT&T, T-Mobile, Cricket, MetroPCS by T-Mobile) - My interpretation is that's only true if you don't flash SPR, VZW, or XAA/U1 firmware, and even then that is not necessarily true in the 4G range.
2. If it says factory unlocked, it will work with all networks-- both CDMA and GSM - My interpretation of that is, it seems their idea of "Factory Unlocked", actually means the phone is running the XAA/U1 firmware.
3. Their refusal to even entertain the possibility of a single model with different firmware working across all of the US networks stems from a long history of cell phone models only being able work with a single wireless provider's bands and proprietary technology.
Correct me if I'm wrong in my logic.
IT_Architect said:
Carriers and vendors on eBay have been adamant that a SM-N960U phone is different, and you cannot use Note 9 phones that came from GSM wireless providers on a CDMA networks and vice-versa. They become incensed and assume a position of superiority at the very suggestion that the differences between network today are often handled by changing firmware. With all of the US Note 9s being the same hardware, this is my take on where they are coming from.
1. If it says carrier unlocked for example: AT&T, it will only be compatible with GSM networks (GSM networks---AT&T, T-Mobile, Cricket, MetroPCS by T-Mobile) - My interpretation is that's only true if you don't flash SPR, VZW, or XAA/U1 firmware, and even then that is not necessarily true in the 4G range.
2. If it says factory unlocked, it will work with all networks-- both CDMA and GSM - My interpretation of that is, it seems their idea of "Factory Unlocked", actually means the phone is running the XAA/U1 firmware.
3. Their refusal to even entertain the possibility of a single model with different firmware working across all of the US networks stems from a long history of cell phone models only being able work with a single wireless provider's bands and proprietary technology.
Correct me if I'm wrong in my logic.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I don't think you can accurately generalize "them".
IT_Architect said:
Carriers and vendors on eBay have been adamant that a SM-N960U phone is different, and you cannot use Note 9 phones that came from GSM wireless providers on a CDMA networks and vice-versa. They become incensed and assume a position of superiority at the very suggestion that the differences between network today are often handled by changing firmware. With all of the US Note 9s being the same hardware, this is my take on where they are coming from.
1. If it says carrier unlocked for example: AT&T, it will only be compatible with GSM networks (GSM networks---AT&T, T-Mobile, Cricket, MetroPCS by T-Mobile) - My interpretation is that's only true if you don't flash SPR, VZW, or XAA/U1 firmware, and even then that is not necessarily true in the 4G range.
2. If it says factory unlocked, it will work with all networks-- both CDMA and GSM - My interpretation of that is, it seems their idea of "Factory Unlocked", actually means the phone is running the XAA/U1 firmware.
3. Their refusal to even entertain the possibility of a single model with different firmware working across all of the US networks stems from a long history of cell phone models only being able work with a single wireless provider's bands and proprietary technology.
Correct me if I'm wrong in my logic.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
i wouldint be surprised that alot of the postings on ebay have the same device under different carriers or just simply generically stated as unlocked. they want more than just 1 result popping up to make it as visible as possible. whether this is legal or not is something to debate with ebay. but i wouldint be surprised savvy vendors would be doing this and depending on which posting was bought, would simply flash carrier firmware or u1 firmware. there are also the ones posting 2nd hand handsets that might have initially been on one build and and along the way was flashed and sold under its original device banner because they looked up product code/serial and sold it as that. also not to mention phones still on contract which can be a time bomb.
Ebay's a jungle. but if you know your rights and have the right arguments to prove your case, you can return almost anything. and if that doesn't work, 2nd stage is a case with paypal.
bober10113 said:
i wouldint be surprised...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I've also been noticing the fine print on the listings that quite a few "good deals" state in the fine print that it is on a contract.
I'm just sticking with there is no difference in the hardware and they are all the same hardware all capable of the GSM and CMDA bands with the proper firmware, no matter what they say about not being able to work with Verizon, and that I can take it to Verizon or T-Mobile. The only thing I might believe is one of them who said it work work with everyone but Sprint, whose issue is most likely based on an IMEI restriction than any capability of the phone.
IT_Architect said:
I've also been noticing the fine print on the listings that quite a few "good deals" state in the fine print that it is on a contract.
I'm just sticking with there is no difference in the hardware and they are all the same hardware all capable of the GSM and CMDA bands with the proper firmware, no matter what they say about not being able to work with Verizon, and that I can take it to Verizon or T-Mobile. The only thing I might believe is one of them who said it work work with everyone but Sprint, whose issue is most likely based on an IMEI restriction than any capability of the phone.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
or on some mdm lockdown as its a rental phone or something and flashing is not an option.
bober10113 said:
or on some mdm lockdown as its a rental phone or something and flashing is not an option.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That is good to know.
Thanks!
Just bought a refurb Note 9 from Amazon...
I realize this is an old thread.... but it is just what I've been wondering.
I bought a Samsung Note 9 phone, labeled (somewhat conflictingly) as completely unlocked but (later on) as only a GSM phone. The model number on the phone is N960U1. That's on a printed label on back of the phone and in the software settings (UI 2.0, as 2.1 hasn't come out yet with this model and T-Mobile[??]). However, I note that lifting the sticky label, the original on chassis number beneath it is N960U (a carrier specific phone).
I thought I knew about phones - I've flashed two other (make that 3 other including my wife's) older Samsung Note phones w/ custom roms because I was tired of being back with Marshmallow.
But fundamental questions I have:
1. Is the N960U phone the exact same phone hardware wise as the N960U1?
2. In other words, is the software lock the *only* difference between these phones?
3. And does that mean I could presumably, once my phone (unlocked by whatever provider once had it locked) is identified as an N960U1, run it on GSM, CDMA, and have access to any and all services offered by whatever provider I choose?
And finally, which is where I began all this, will this phone update to the UI 2.1 eventually as an unlocked phone with that specific (still not available) N960U1 update? Or is the phone in some state of being "neither fish nor foul" - that is, not *really* a fully unlocked phone?
I am asking all this because I could still send it back to Amazon if it is less than it ought to be and get something else.
It is currently running the June UI 2.0 update from T-Mobile....
Thanks for any thoughts. The deeper one digs, the more questions come up.
shonkin said:
1. Is the N960U phone the exact same phone hardware wise as the N960U1?
2. In other words, is the software lock the *only* difference between these phones?
3. And does that mean I could presumably, once my phone (unlocked by whatever provider once had it locked) is identified as an N960U1, run it on GSM, CDMA, and have access to any and all services offered by whatever provider I choose?
4. And finally, which is where I began all this, will this phone update to the UI 2.1 eventually as an unlocked phone with that specific (still not available) N960U1 update? Or is the phone in some state of being "neither fish nor foul" - that is, not *really* a fully unlocked phone?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
1. Yes
2. The U vs. U1 is not indicative of a lock vs. no lock. U phones can be unlocked or locked. The U firmware is wireless-provider-specific firmware. It could be Verizon, T-Mobile, AT&T, etc. Each have their own firmware to work with their specific networks. They will also force updates on you whether you want them or not. The U1 firmware is standards-compliant support. The better the wireless provider supports the standards, the better U1 works. T-Mobile supports it perfectly but has some loss of functionality with allied vendors. You may never notice. Next, is Verizon. Verizon was CDMA, so its 3rd gen stuff won't work like the GSM networks will because they don't have any anymore. However, all of the 4G will, and Verizon has more 4G coverage than any of the others have 2+3+4G coverage. Thus, you don't miss the 3G like you would AT&T who is 25%-30% less than 4G, but AT&T has always been GSM so coverage-wise it is close to Verizon. For standards compliance for U1, AT&T is dead last by far, and if that isn't enough, the most resistant to accept a phone not sold by them. If you do not buy a new phone through a wireless provider, it will be a U1 phone. With a U1 phone you can prevent it from updating if you hold your mouth right. You cannot stop a U phone from updating. Other countries were behind the US so they tend to be more standards-compliant because they weren't as heavily in the game when the innovation was taking place. That means for traveling and swapping SIMs for different foreign carriers, you would want the U1. The Note 9 is the first Note with about every band known to man like the iPhone.
3. Yes
4. If the phone was purchased as a U1, it is undoubtedly unlocked because the seller is not selling it on a contract, and has no idea which network the phone will be used on.
Everything I've read, the 960U /U1 are the same hardware. To support that, their firmware modules are the same except one that is carrier-specific. The U1 for the Note 9 is not carrier specific. I had a T-Mobile Note 9 that I used on the Verizon network with no issues. I have a Verizon Note 9 now, and there is no difference. The only reason I have the Verizon Note 9 now is because the brand new T-Mobile one, still sealed in the box and with the protective film on it, ended up on the bad MEID list. Apparently someone bought it and brought it back without using it and stopped paying on it and thought they were out of the contract by doing so. The Verizon U phone that I have now has been flashed to U1 and works fine on their network. So the advantage of the U is its supports all of your carrier's services. The U1 supports all of your carrier's services that are standards-based and don't use carrier-specific services. Example, if the carrier supports support VoLTE, U1 will not usually support it because it must coordinate with the carrier's servers while U will. They say the U1 doesn't have the carrier bloatware. I don't agree. The carrier-specific added services are designed to work with their servers. Moreover, in the areas that need to be filled in, you get the basic programs from Samsung to replace the more capable ones you get from the carrier. I use U1 because I need to stop them from updating me due to my line-of-business software on my phone and for International travel when I replace the SIM with a local network SIM. If that's not you, and you want the latest for your carrier, U is what you want.
IT_Architect said:
1. Yes
2. The U vs. U1 is not indicative of a lock vs. no lock. U phones can be unlocked or locked. The U firmware is wireless-provider-specific firmware. It could be Verizon, T-Mobile, AT&T, etc. Each have their own firmware to work with their specific networks. They will also force updates on you whether you want them or not. The U1 firmware is standards-compliant support. The better the wireless provider supports the standards, the better U1 works. T-Mobile supports it perfectly but has some loss of functionality with allied vendors. You may never notice. Next, is Verizon. Verizon was CDMA, so its 3rd gen stuff won't work like the GSM networks will because they don't have any anymore. However, all of the 4G will, and Verizon has more 4G coverage than any of the others have 2+3+4G coverage. Thus, you don't miss the 3G like you would AT&T who is 25%-30% 3G, but AT&T has always been GSM so coverage-wise it is close to Verizon. For compatibility U1, AT&T is dead last by far. If you do not buy a new phone through a wireless provider, it will be a U1 phone. With a U1 phone you can prevent it from updating if you hold your mouth right. You cannot stop a U phone from updating. Other countries were behind the US so they tend to be more standards-compliant because they weren't as heavily in the game when the innovation was taking place. That means for traveling and swapping SIMs for different foreign carriers, you would want the U1. The Note 9 is the first Note with about every band known to man like the iPhone.
3. Yes
4. If the phone was purchased as a U1, it is undoubtedly unlocked because the seller is not selling it on a contract, and has no idea which network the phone will be used on.
Everything I've read, the 960U /U1 are the same hardware. To support that, their firmware modules are the same except one that is carrier-specific. The U1 for the Note 9 is not carrier specific. I had a T-Mobile Note 9 that I used on the Verizon network with no issues. I have a Verizon Note 9 now, and there is no difference. The only reason I have the Verizon Note 9 now is because the brand new T-Mobile one, still sealed in the box and with the protective film on it, ended up on the bad MEID list. Apparently someone bought it and brought it back without using it and thought they were out of the contract by doing so. The Verizon U phone that I have now has been flashed to U1 and works fine on their network. So the advantage of the U is its supports all of your carrier's services. The U1 supports all of your carrier's services that are standards-based and don't use carrier-specific services. Example, if the carrier supports support VoLTE, U1 will not usually support it because it coordinates with the carrier's servers while U will. They say the U1 doesn't have the carrier bloatware. I don't agree. The carrier-specific added services are designed to work with their servers. I use U1 because I need to stop them from updating me due to my line-of-business software on my phone and for International travel when I replace the SIM with a local network SIM. If that's not you, and you want the latest for your carrier, U is what you want.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you for this. Very helpful. I'm not sure yet whether I'll send the phone back.
UPDATE: Samsung released the T-Mobile update to UI 2.1 (dated July 7) today, August 11 2020.
NOTE: I installed this and hit an issue after the install completed re an error message (see photo). This error apparently is happening in a widespread way, and the 3 solutions offered by Samsung did not work. What *did* (I think) work for me was to go to Settings > Software Update > UICC Unlock. Beneath that button on the N960UI it reads (as it should) "Your device is unlocked to support any sim." I click it anyway and I get a report that my device sim is restricted, bla bla bla. I hit the "OK" and reboot the phone to see... and sure enough, that's all it apparently took to remove the annoying nag about the install not having completed. In fact I get a successful "handshake" message between T-Mobile and the phone having formed a more perfect union or some such.
shonkin said:
Thank you for this. Very helpful. I'm not sure yet whether I'll send the phone back.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You can flash between any carrier U and U1 firmware at any time. The only thing you need to be aware of is the boot loader version, which is the 5th character from the right in the build number.
- It must be the same number or higher.
- You cannot flash backwards to a lower number.
E.G. You can flash from a newer version of Android to an older version PROVIDED the older version does not have a lower boot loader version. If flashing the newer version of Android changed the boot loader version to a higher version than the older operating system supports, you cannot flash to the older version of Android ever again. The boot loader version is not synched with the the Android version. It is synched with the particular build. Thus, you might get an update to the current operating system that increments your boot loader. If you like to always be on the latest version of firmware, this is no likely to be a problem.
For the SM-N960U/U1 phones, the various carrier versions, U, and the U1 version are released at the same time. A lot of standardization has occurred and made possible by the hardware being the same. In the U1 versions for the SM-N960 you will see carrier names associated with different downloads. It's all bogus. The downloads are all exactly the same with the same module names, size, and the same MD5 signature.
IT_Architect said:
You can flash between any carrier U and U1 firmware at any time. The only thing you need to be aware of is the boot loader version, which is the 5th character from the right in the build number.
- It must be the same number or higher.
- You cannot flash backwards to a lower number.
E.G. You can flash from a newer version of Android to an older version PROVIDED the older version does not have a lower boot loader version. If flashing the newer version of Android changed the boot loader version to a higher version than the older operating system supports, you cannot flash to the older version of Android ever again. The boot loader version is not synched with the the Android version. It is synched with the particular build. Thus, you might get an update to the current operating system that increments your boot loader. If you like to always be on the latest version of firmware, this is no likely to be a problem.
For the SM-N960U/U1 phones, the various carrier versions, U, and the U1 version are released at the same time. A lot of standardization has occurred and made possible by the hardware being the same. In the U1 versions for the SM-N960 you will see carrier names associated with different downloads. It's all bogus. The downloads are all exactly the same with the same module names, size, and the same MD5 signature.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
VERY helpful info here.... as of this morning Samsung updated my phone w/ UI 2.1 T-Mobile files. I posted on it elsewhere as a recurring error popped up. Surfing the web shows that error cropped up for all sorts of people doing the 2.1 update on various carriers. I *think* I found the solution but have posted it enough places (including a few posts back in this thread) I won't do again unless someone here wants it. Samsung's "solutions" (all three of them) do not work. Oh, I think I'll hold on to this phone rather than switch out for a T-Mobile specific... gives me more lattitude down the road when I feel like rooting it. Ha!
shonkin said:
VERY helpful info here.... as of this morning Samsung updated my phone w/ UI 2.1 T-Mobile files. I posted on it elsewhere as a recurring error popped up. Surfing the web shows that error cropped up for all sorts of people doing the 2.1 update on various carriers. I *think* I found the solution but have posted it enough places (check other threads here) I won't do again unless someone here wants it. Samsung's "solutions" (all three of them) do not work. Oh, I think I'll hold on to this phone rather than switch out for a T-Mobile specific... gives me more lattitude down the road when I feel like rooting it. Ha!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
As far as the difference between the one you have and T-Mobile, there isn't any difference. If you want T-Mobile specific, simply flash their firmware. The upside nearly all of T-Mobile's network was late to the game so their network had little non-standards-based legacy to deal with and thus works very will with the U1 firmware as well. You can always switch back and forth. Different carriers have different MEID ranges. A few carriers, such as AT&T might deny you based on that number not being theirs, but it is not a phone capability issue since the hardware is the same.
You cannot root any of the U phones at this time that I'm aware of. There has been talk and they've been able to do it soft of but not without serious snags in functionality. All N960s sold in the US are U/U1 phones with the SnapDragon processor. There is a SnapDragon that is rootable and dual-SIM, the SM-N9600. In China you may not sell a phone that is not rootable. However, that phone is also used in many other countries. It should work with T-Mobile too, BUT there may be some performance limitations because it might not support all of their bands. Verizon won't accept it initially, BUT a lot of people have activated the SIM on an approved phone, and then moved the SIM the SM-N9600 and it works fine. The SM-N9600 supports all of Verizon's LTE bands. The downside is you cannot use Samsung Pay, the best pay system out there. The SM-N9600 is in demand which affects the price. It is a good world phone with SnapDragon/Qualcomm and a well implemented Dual SIM. You may see it said that the SM-N9600 doesn't work on a CDMA network. That may be, but Verizon has hardly any CDMA left themselves because the FCC is kicking them off it. They won't have any by year end and were supposed to be and almost were by year-end last year. There is more to the game than GSM vs. CDMA. It is also support for the major specific band for the carrier that is used to log you into their network, which is independent of which band you will communicate on. That is a potential show stopper. About the only place in the world where the SM-N9600 has any issues is in the US. If you can get your carrier to work with it, you are pretty much golden for the rest of the world.
IT_Architect said:
1. Yes
2. The U vs. U1 is not indicative of a lock vs. no lock. U phones can be unlocked or locked. The U firmware is wireless-provider-specific firmware. It could be Verizon, T-Mobile, AT&T, etc. Each have their own firmware to work with their specific networks. They will also force updates on you whether you want them or not. The U1 firmware is standards-compliant support. The better the wireless provider supports the standards, the better U1 works. T-Mobile supports it perfectly but has some loss of functionality with allied vendors. You may never notice. Next, is Verizon. Verizon was CDMA, so its 3rd gen stuff won't work like the GSM networks will because they don't have any anymore. However, all of the 4G will, and Verizon has more 4G coverage than any of the others have 2+3+4G coverage. Thus, you don't miss the 3G like you would AT&T who is 25%-30% less than 4G, but AT&T has always been GSM so coverage-wise it is close to Verizon. For standards compliance for U1, AT&T is dead last by far, and if that isn't enough, the most resistant to accept a phone not sold by them. If you do not buy a new phone through a wireless provider, it will be a U1 phone. With a U1 phone you can prevent it from updating if you hold your mouth right. You cannot stop a U phone from updating. Other countries were behind the US so they tend to be more standards-compliant because they weren't as heavily in the game when the innovation was taking place. That means for traveling and swapping SIMs for different foreign carriers, you would want the U1. The Note 9 is the first Note with about every band known to man like the iPhone.
3. Yes
4. If the phone was purchased as a U1, it is undoubtedly unlocked because the seller is not selling it on a contract, and has no idea which network the phone will be used on.
Everything I've read, the 960U /U1 are the same hardware. To support that, their firmware modules are the same except one that is carrier-specific. The U1 for the Note 9 is not carrier specific. I had a T-Mobile Note 9 that I used on the Verizon network with no issues. I have a Verizon Note 9 now, and there is no difference. The only reason I have the Verizon Note 9 now is because the brand new T-Mobile one, still sealed in the box and with the protective film on it, ended up on the bad MEID list. Apparently someone bought it and brought it back without using it and stopped paying on it and thought they were out of the contract by doing so. The Verizon U phone that I have now has been flashed to U1 and works fine on their network. So the advantage of the U is its supports all of your carrier's services. The U1 supports all of your carrier's services that are standards-based and don't use carrier-specific services. Example, if the carrier supports support VoLTE, U1 will not usually support it because it must coordinate with the carrier's servers while U will. They say the U1 doesn't have the carrier bloatware. I don't agree. The carrier-specific added services are designed to work with their servers. Moreover, in the areas that need to be filled in, you get the basic programs from Samsung to replace the more capable ones you get from the carrier. I use U1 because I need to stop them from updating me due to my line-of-business software on my phone and for International travel when I replace the SIM with a local network SIM. If that's not you, and you want the latest for your carrier, U is what you want.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
How did you successfully flash U1 software on your Note 9? I tried doing this back in March unsuccessfully as Odin threw up an error.
Hi everyone. After a big blowout I had with AT&T leading me to finally leave them after our family being customers for 20 years, it led me to porting out all 5 of my family's numbers to Xfinity Mobile. Good riddance.
I'm happy to report that, unlike with AT&T, advanced calling features work with the Google Store / Unlocked Pixel 4 XL (and regular Pixel 4, which my wife is now using). VoLTE and WiFi calling both work perfectly. Both phones were immediately bootloader unlocked and heavily modified as soon as I got them. Like usual, none of the advanced calling features worked while on AT&T (for our last 2-3 days with them before I got the Xfinity Mobile SIM cards in the mail and peaced out, lol). I was worried that advanced calling might not work on Xfinity Mobile either unless you bought the phone from them, and considering they're closely related to Verizon, I wasn't sure if I would ever be able to unlock the bootloader if purchased from them. Well, you don't need to worry if you buy the factory unlocked variant.
They also extended their BYOD promo, so doing BYOD and porting out your number from your carrier will get you a $50 "rebate" so to speak per number ported out ($250 for me, wooo! My brother and parents all had iPhones that were also BYOD'd). I'll be honest, I friggin hate Comcast as a cable company, but seeing as how they're my only option for ISP for the foreseeable future, why the hell not reduce my cell phone bill by ~60-70% and be on a better network than AT&T's crap?
Oh, and also, for the last month of service with AT&T, knowing it wouldn't be a full month of service, I dropped our 35GB family plan to 3GB, expecting to save a few bucks. According to them, the total month cost was supposed to go down by ~$40. Instead, it went UP by $10. Yup, I dropped our data allotment by 90%, and our bill went UP. They didn't tell us that instead of $15 per line access charge we've been paying for years, it would become $20, and charge the primary line $45 access fee, just because. Goodbye you f"king scam artists.
PS: I'm not a Comcast shill. This is more of a PSA, and if I could convince anyone else to leave AT&T and stop giving them your hard earned money, this is all worth it.
edit for more info/thoughts: Part of the BYOD process involved entering the device IMEI numbers, before being able to order the sim cards - I suspect to check that, A) they're compatible BYOD devices, B) whether it corresponds to certain carriers, and C) for iPhones, that they are indeed carrier unlocked. I would also suspect that this process registers these devices' IMEI numbers into their database to allow VoLTE and WiFi Calling on their network. So I really don't see any reason they would suddenly pull these features away for eligible BYOD devices, done the right way. I did notice when I tried to drop the new SIM into my wife's old HTC U11, data and advanced calling wouldn't work. Like some MVNO's, this may make switching phones a little more annoying in the future, but probably easily taken care of as long as you use a compatible phone and a quick call. Ultimately still well worth it if you ask me. Oh, and my brother, mom, and stepdad use iPhone 6s, 7, and 7 Plus - advanced calling features worked on them too. 2 of them were unlocked AT&T phones, and the other was Verizon (which at the time were all SIM unlocked).